Florida pet owners often face confusion about which dogs they can legally own in their communities. Local cities and counties have created a patchwork of rules that vary widely across the state, making it difficult for families to know what restrictions apply to them.
As of October 1, 2023, Florida law prohibits governments and public housing authorities from banning dogs based solely on breed, weight, or size.
This landmark change overturned many local ordinances that had restricted certain dog breeds for decades. However, private landlords and homeowners associations may still maintain their own pet policies.
The new legislation represents a major shift in how Florida handles dog ownership rights. While statewide breed bans are now illegal, dog owners still need to understand how local housing rules, rental agreements, and community regulations might affect their pets.
Understanding these current laws helps families make informed decisions about dog ownership and avoid potential legal issues.
Statewide Restrictions
Florida does not have any statewide dog breed bans as of 2025. The state takes a different approach than some other states that maintain breed-specific legislation.
Current State Law
Florida ended breed discrimination completely in October 2023. Senate Bill 942 removed all remaining local ordinances that restricted dogs based on breed, weight, or size.
Before this change, Florida had prohibited most local breed-specific legislation since 1990. However, the law allowed cities and counties with existing bans before October 1, 1990, to keep their restrictions.
What This Means
Local governments cannot create new breed-specific legislation. They cannot ban pit bulls, Rottweilers, or any other specific breeds.
Public housing authorities also follow these same rules. They cannot deny housing based on a dog’s breed, weight, or size.
Focus on Behavior
Florida now uses a behavior-based approach instead of breed-specific legislation. Dogs are judged by their actions, not their breed.
The state still has dangerous dog laws. These laws apply when individual dogs show aggressive behavior or bite someone.
Legal Protection
Dog owners have stronger legal protection now. They cannot face breed discrimination from local governments or public housing authorities anywhere in Florida.
City/County-Specific Rules
Florida law changed significantly in October 2023. Before this date, Miami-Dade County was the only jurisdiction in Florida that could maintain breed-specific dog restrictions.
Miami-Dade County’s Former Ban
Miami-Dade County banned pit bulls in 1989 after several serious dog attacks. The ban covered American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and similar breeds.
In 2012, county voters chose to keep the ban by a vote of 63% to 37%. This was the last remaining municipal breed restriction in Florida.
Current Status Across Florida
As of October 1, 2023, no local government can adopt breed-specific regulations. This includes cities, counties, and public housing authorities.
Local governments cannot create rules based on:
- Dog breed
- Dog weight
- Dog size
What Cities Can Still Do
Cities and counties can still regulate dogs through behavior-based rules. They can require licensing, leash laws, and dangerous dog designations based on individual actions.
Public housing authorities must judge dogs by their behavior rather than appearance or breed type.
Private Property Rules
Homeowner associations and private landlords can still create their own pet restrictions. These rules apply to condominiums, apartments, and private housing communities.
Housing & Rental Restrictions
Florida passed new legislation in 2023 that prohibits public housing authorities from restricting dogs based solely on breed, weight, or size. The law took effect on October 1, 2023.
Before this change, 46 out of 49 public housing authorities had weight restrictions. Some limits were as low as 10 pounds. Additionally, 29 authorities had breed restrictions that targeted specific dog types.
Private Rental Market Differences
Private landlords still maintain full control over their pet policies. They can charge pet deposits, monthly pet rent, and restrict certain breeds. The new law only applies to public housing and government-controlled properties.
Common private rental restrictions include:
- Monthly pet rent ranging from $25-75
- Security deposits of $200-500
- Breed restrictions on pit bulls, German shepherds, and rottweilers
- Weight limits typically between 25-80 pounds
Impact on Families
Housing issues represented the number one reason dog owners surrendered pets to Florida shelters in 2020. Over 25,000 dogs were surrendered by owners in 2022 due to housing challenges.
The Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative distinguishes between “pet-friendly” and “pet-inclusive” policies. Pet-friendly policies allow animals but often include multiple restrictions and extra fees.
Two grandfathered municipalities – Sunrise and Miami – maintained some breed restrictions after the law passed. However, most public housing now evaluates dogs based on individual behavior rather than breed characteristics.
Commonly Restricted Breeds
Several dog breeds face restrictions across Florida’s local jurisdictions. These limitations vary by county and city, creating a patchwork of regulations throughout the state.
Pit bulls represent the most frequently targeted breed group. Miami-Dade County maintains a well-known ban on pit bulls, including American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers. This ban has remained in effect since before 1990 due to grandfathering provisions in Florida law.
Rottweilers also face restrictions in various communities. Their large size and protective nature make them targets for breed-specific legislation. Some areas classify them as dangerous dogs rather than implementing outright bans.
Other breeds commonly restricted include:
- German Shepherds – Often restricted due to their use as police and guard dogs
- Doberman Pinschers – Targeted for their reputation as guard dogs
- Wolf-dog hybrids – Restricted due to wild animal characteristics
- Boxers – Sometimes included in housing authority restrictions
- Huskies – Occasionally restricted in public housing
Public housing authorities across Florida show particularly restrictive patterns, with 60% of policies restricting pets based on breed. These restrictions often extend beyond traditionally banned breeds to include popular family dogs.
The specific breeds restricted depend entirely on local ordinances. What remains legal in one city may face complete prohibition in a neighboring jurisdiction. Dog owners must research their specific location’s regulations before acquiring any of these commonly restricted breeds.
What Dog Owners Can Do?
Dog owners in Florida now have more options thanks to recent legal changes. Governor DeSantis signed legislation that ended breed-specific restrictions in public housing and municipal laws.
Know Your Rights
Owners can no longer be denied housing based solely on their dog’s breed, weight, or size. This applies to public housing and local government policies.
Focus on Training and Behavior
Since dogs are now judged by behavior rather than breed, proper training becomes essential. Owners should:
- Enroll in obedience classes
- Socialize their dogs early
- Address behavioral issues promptly
- Keep vaccination records current
Maintain Proper Documentation
Responsible owners should keep detailed records of their dog’s training, health, and behavior history. This documentation helps demonstrate responsible ownership.
Understand Insurance Requirements
Starting July 2025, owners of dogs classified as dangerous must carry at least $100,000 in liability insurance under the Pam Rock Act. This applies only to dogs with a history of biting or attacking.
Stay Informed About Local Changes
While state law prevents new breed restrictions, some older local ordinances may still be changing. Owners should check with their city or county for current regulations.
Be a Responsible Owner
The best protection comes from being a responsible pet owner. This includes proper containment, leash use, and immediate response to any behavioral concerns.
